"I never played football with or against Pat Tillman and I didn't know him, but I wish I had. Simply put, he was an American hero. He had the courage of his convictions to walk away from the money, prestige, celebrity and fame that an NFL career offers. To do that takes incredible amounts of integrity and heroism. Tillman made the ultimate sacrifice so that the people of this country could be protected. He should be honored by Arizona State University, the Arizona Cardinals and the NFL. I regret that I didn't know this amazing human being."-- Mark Schlereth

I couldn't have said it better myself. I cannot explain the admiration I have for this man or the heartfelt sorrow I have for his family. It's refreshing to see that there are still people out there more interested in something other than money or fame. And this goes for all soldiers who are fighting and dying in battle.

Men like that are the inspirations for the rest of us to join up. If he can walk away from all that to serve his country, who's to say I can't commit myself to that sort of life as well? I've loved every minute of being with the military, and I hope this inspires others to stand up and join. If nothing else, I hope this will get a little respect back to the military that it's lost over the last year or so.